Why do we assume we are the apex of intelligence?

[Caveat]

In fact, why do we assume we are intelligent.. AT ALL?

Relativity is a troubling thing for me imho.

We are intelligent as a species in relation to other species. Species that make us look smart when we're next to them; animals, insects etc. But some people seem to think, regardless of these creatures, we tip the scales of intellect, that we're somewhat at the higher end of the spectrum. Even to the point where we've taken up the authority to dictate what can and cannot exist (wow).

Hmm.

So, are we intelligent relatively or absolutely?

 

[Borek]

It will not hurt to start by defining what you mean by intelligence, as it is not a clear concept at all.

 

[inotyce]

In fact, why do we assume we are intelligent.. AT ALL?

We are more intelligent than low-level animals. You can't train a monkey e.g writing skill within a specific duration, but you can do that to a human baby of 5 or 6.

So, are we intelligent relatively or absolutely?

Intelligence can not be defined as a simple math formula, but it can be measured via IQ score which I think is only a sample datum among others to define one's intelligence relatively.

To me there are no intelligent people (including me), only nice and kind to be friends with.

 

[Caveat]

It will not hurt to start by defining what you mean by intelligence, as it is not a clear concept at all.

If I ask you if you're more intelligent than an ant, you'd obviously answer "yes". For you to answer with "yes" means you at least have some idea of what intelligence is.

Deconstructing it brings us to the same problem. Processing power (how many functions can happen simultaneously), processing speed (how fast can these processes happen), processing capability (linear, abstract functions) etc.

1.
the ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills.
synonyms: intellectual capacity, mental capacity, intellect, mind, brain(s), IQ, brainpower, judgment, reasoning, understanding, comprehension...

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intelligence

 

[Enigman]

In fact, why do we assume we are intelligent.. AT ALL?

Because we have the ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills.

We are intelligent as a species in relation to other species. Species that make us look smart when we're next to them; animals, insects etc. But some people seem to think, regardless of these creatures, we tip the scales of intellect, that we're somewhat at the higher end of the spectrum.

We are at higher end compared to them. Why make a spectrum with only one existing element?

Even to the point where we've taken up the authority to dictate what can and cannot exist (wow).

We haven't. We are trying to find out what does and does not exist which is not synonymous with dictating.

If a scale/spectrum of intelligence exists, then an absolute level of intelligence exists - a point in which intelligence reaches it's peak

If a number line exists so does that mean a number greater than all others exist? What's the maxima of y=x ?

Hmm.

So, are we intelligent relatively or absolutely?

We are intelligent as we have ability to acquire and apply knowledge and skills.
How intelligent? More than the other species we have seen on Earth.

 

[Caveat]

Okay, let's bring in the maths because this is getting a bit subjective/opinionated.

Consider the simplicity here, where X is intelligence and +n is the amount greater than. So;

Example: X+n
Ants: X+1
Dogs: X+2
Dolphins: X+3
Humans: X+10

Now, the question is so simple: does n have a limit? Yes or no. What is it?

 

[Enigman]

no kurzweil woo woo

The limit then becomes a n such that the entity has all knowledge possible(probably constrained by uncertainity principle) and as much skill as possible(constrained by all physical laws).

 

[Vanadium 50]

In the words of Tonto, "What you mean we?"

 

[Caveat]

"Nature is much smarter than we are."
- M. Kaku

In the words of Tonto, "What you mean we?"

Humans.

 

[Enigman]

"Nature is much smarter than we are."
- M. Kaku

'Nature' is a bit too confining , IMO Universe fits better...but I essentially agree with its essence.

 

[Enigman]

In the words of Tonto, "What you mean we?"

 

[Vanadium 50]

Humans.

So you speak for all humans, no?

We get a number of messages of the form "Why do we believe [insert nonsense here]." Often the answer is that "we" don't believe it.

 

[Evo]

This thread started off with religion and derogatory comments then went further down hill with overly speculative woo. Closed.